The Mastectomy Store Blog

Amoena's Favourite Self Care Tips For A Happier Life.

It’s so so easy to neglect our self-care when we’re busy with work, family, friends, getting ready for back-to-school or just life in general.We hope these quick tips can help make it easy to show yourselves a little more love every day.

Give lots of hugs, especially to yourself because you deserve it: ​

Hugging calms us, decreases our blood pressure, and increases the release of feel-good hormones. A study out of the UK says even hugging ourselves sends a positive message to the brain and is found to “significantly” relieve pain. ​

Amoena breast forms pass the hug test:

Of course, you’ll want to share the hugs, with family, friends … and perhaps your fitter. Hug tight in complete confidence with Amoena’s breast forms that feel and look so natural.

Ask yourself for a dance:

Dance at home to your favourite music, or take a dance class. It’s good for your heart—literally. Dancing increases physical health and overall happiness. And it’s also shown to keep our brains younger, and improve memory.

What to wear to the dance studio?

You can’t go wrong with the long lasting Amoena sports top, with integrated shelf bra. It gives you security and support to move in confidence (and can hold a partial or breast form). We love the flattering fit that’s not too tight, and wonderful performance fabric. ​

Wear bras that feel good:

Being kind to yourself means refusing to wear a mastectomy bra that doesn’t fit properly and that can hurt your back, your neck, chaff your skin, and make you irritable.​

Breathe better in a bra that comforts:

The Amy Seamless mastectomy bra is a perfect example. Ultra soft, it feels like a smooth second skin. All the pocketed bras in the Amoena comfort collection have special features so you’ll feel care-free, confident, at ease.

Look up:

Wellness experts say taking time regularly to cloud gaze is like a mini-meditation that uplifts our spirit, and activates our creativity. Intrigued? Learn more at www.cloudappreciation society.org. ​

Cloud watching fashion?:

Anything goes, but we like the versatile Amoena Valletta. This flattering and comfortable strappy pocketed top with built-in shelf bra will take you from work, to workout, to watching the clouds go by. ​

Ask a woman if she’d run in her pumps, and she’ll laugh. But ask if she’d jog in her everyday bra, and she might just smile and nod.

We make a point of wearing the right shoes to workout, but the right bra -- not so much. Though Amoena sports bras have been on the market for almost 50 years, many women remain unaware of how much these matter to their health.

A study out of the UK shows 68% don’t ever bother with a sports bra. And it has been found most women who wear a sports bra don’t trade in for a new one often enough so their bra no longer provides the right support or fit. It’s time to spread the word on why it matters to wear a sports bra.

​Top 2 reasons to wear a properly fitted Amoena sports bra.

Cooper’s ligaments -- the thin strands of fibers that hold up our breast –aren’t very strong. Breast movement during exercise can cause these ligaments to stretch. This results in damage and irreversible sagging.

Heard of Jogger’s breast? It’s the term for pain, and stretched ligaments, women experience when breasts bounce and move side-to-side during activity due to poor support.

Small breasts need sports bras too. Cup size has nothing to do with body mechanics. Women of every size are at risk of pain and stretched ligaments.

​2) Protection for back and neck

A good Amoena sports bra will alleviate strain on our neck, upper back, and even lower back.

This is equally important for women who wear breast forms. Proper balance and support when exercising is essential for spinal alignment.

Top 5 reasons to wear an Amoena sports bra

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Pocketed cups keep breast forms securely in place for total discretion and confidence, no matter what activity you do.

Bra cups are superbly constructed, sides are reinforced, and the bottom band is supportive.

The fabric is breathable to keep you cool, and the soft top-quality materials ensure comfort against your skin.

Need a bra that’s easy to put on and take off? The new Amoena pocketed front zipper sports bra with rounded neck is the easiest ever. Perfect for everything from walking to cycling.

For lower impact activities, you can trade your sports bra for the Amoena pocketed sports top. Its superb integrated shelf bra still protects and it has a racer back for easy movement. Thanks to a slightly higher neckline than other tops you’d find, it hides scars and increases confidence.

Amoena’s Energy breast form is made for the active woman ​

This is truly a fantastic breast form. It has a pearl surface on the back that allows air to flow freely behind the form. This increases ventilation and moisture evaporation. And it’s Comfort+ technology absorbs heat to keep you cool.

​Did you know that every human body is a bit of mismatch? Our right side does not perfectly match our left.

That’s not a flaw, that’s a fact of nature. So if you wonder whether other women also have one breast that’s somewhat different in size and shape than the other, the answer is definitely yes.

It’s not surprising when you consider we have one foot that’s bigger and even the two sides of our face are slightly different. Movie stars are famously fussy for demanding that photographers capture their preferred side.

When breast imbalance is an issue, we have an ingenious solution.

There are several reasons why a woman may have significantly uneven breasts – it could be due to natural development or as a result of a lumpectomy or reconstruction. Still, many women don’t talk about this common issue, and just try to make do. They either tolerate bras that fit only one breast properly or they use bulky, generic fillers.

It’s 2018! We have far more advanced solutions available. Let’s talk about it.

Also known as symmetry shapers, bra inserts or breast enhancers, they are truly the most easy, comfortable way to have a gorgeous, balanced, silhouette.

7 reasons why Amoena Balance Breast Shapers are worth talking about

These breast shapers feel and look entirely natural. That’s because they are made of the very highest quality soft lifelike silicone.

They’re totally invisible under clothing.

Amoena breast shapers are curved to match the body shape, and have specially designed thin tapered edges so you can’t spot them, even under the tightest tops.

You can wear them in complete confidence, for every activity.

Just slip into any bra as they adhere gently to the breast, or slip into the pocket of a mastectomy bra. In less than a minute, you’re ready to go to work, to the gym, for a jog, and out dancing.

They give a sizzling extra “boost” when wearing an evening gown or lower cut top.

You can place them anywhere in your bra cup to fill out exactly where you need it – underneath to lift up, or on the side to enhance a décolleté.

They are important confidence boosters for teens too.

It’s natural for teens to have one breast develop faster than the other. But we know that imbalance can be upsetting to this painfully self-conscious age group. These invisible shapers make them feel confident about how they look in their clothes. And because of their lifelike feel, they relax knowing they are hug-safe.

Your fitter can fit you with the exact Amoena Balance Breast Shaper that is uniquely right for you.

Amoena has the largest variety of Balance Breast Shapers. They come in so many different sizes, shapes, and thickness so that your fitter can make sure you wear the one that is perfect for you.

Some models feature Comfort+ technology that absorbs when your body temperature rises and release it back to the body when your temperature lowers.

​​Right now, Balancers are mostly a little secret between you and your fitter. But spread the word to the women in your life. All it takes is a small thing to make a huge difference to someone’s confidence and comfort.

We would like to remind you, our valued customer when our delivery service will be available over the Christmas and New Year period.

Of course the website will be available 24/7 with orders placed during this period packed and dispatched the next working day. The only days we wont be working are Sundays and public holidays. Please also be mindful that post may take a little longer to arrive at this time of year.

It's been a very busy time so far this Christmas for the team at the Mastectomy store, but rest assured we still have a huge range of mastectomy bras, sportswear, mastectomy swimsuits, breast forms and mastectomy clearance items in stock, ready to pack and deliver.

Women love it. Customers tell us before they discovered Amoena, they dreaded swimsuit shopping. Now they’re having a blast trying on 1-pieces, 2-pieces, tankinis, and swimdresses in gorgeous florals and colours.

That’s because Amoena mastectomy swimwear is like no other. These are smart solution swimsuits that intelligently address body image concerns.

Amoena designers integrate all kinds of hidden touches to create different styles to flatter different body types. Each style has its own unique features.

For breast form wearers, this pocketed swimwear provides absolute discretion and security. You can move freely, confidently, with no worries about breast forms slipping or falling forward, even in a wet bathing suit. The pockets are accessible making it so easy for you.

Underarm consideration: It’s remarkable how just a slightly higher cut under the arms gives you a more flattering line. It’s not excess coverage, but the cut provides added security and peace of mind, and can camouflage high scarring.

Legline: Many women are a little thigh-shy, although there’s no need. Amoena’s leg-line is especially cut to flatter, and this year’s collection provides many options, including boy legs and sarong style.

Adjustable straps: Sometimes adjustable straps change how the swimsuit looks and performs for you. Those who want them will love the styles that have them.

Smart control: High-five to Amoena for this design feat. Their swimsuits with tummy and/or bottom control linings made of supportive Lycra help enhance the figure, but – and this is key — without giving you that uncomfortable feeling of tightness. Yes, you can breathe!

Cup sizing: It’s no surprise that the brand that leads in breast support offers swimwear styles in different cup sizes.

Back for a reason: Once again, the Amoena swimsuit back is at 2.5 to 5 cm below the bra line. This is for assured security and comfort. And it looks really pretty.

Underwired pockets:​Here’s a nice touch. Some bikinis in the collection have soft underwiring to adapt to your shape and provide support without discomfort. Be assured, the flexible under wiring won’t damage Amoena breast forms.

We know our swimwear designs inside out.

We make swimsuit shopping easy, and enjoyable. Drop in, browse and then step into our fitting room. Tell us your preferences and/or your concerns, and we’ll show you a selection of terrific, flattering solutions to buoy your confidence.

Points to consider:

Amoena mastectomy swimsuits hold a regular silicone breast form. Although we like the silicone form made especially for swimming, Aqua Wave.

The Aqua Wave breast form still gives you a lovely shape but it’s lighter and quick drying. Also it has a hallowed back so water flows through without accumulating.

Chlorine and salt water won’t damage any breast form — but be sure to rinse it (and your swimsuit) in fresh cold water after you swim. If left unwashed, chlorine and salt will break down the silicone.

Checkout some of great designs in Amoena mastectomy swimsuit collection, and put the sizzle back into your summer.

Why wear a breast form?

After mastectomy, breast-conserving surgery or even reconstruction, you might choose to wear a breast form (breast prosthesis) or shaper, to help you feel like yourself again.Your goal when being fitted for a breast form is to create a natural body silhouette so that you feel balanced, comfortable and confident. High quality silicone forms behave like a real breast, moving naturally when you walk and lie down. But breast forms aren’t just cosmetic; there are important medical reasons to wear them. By compensating for the weight of a real breast, a properly fitting breast form helps prevent problems like lymphedema, bad posture or shoulder and neck problems. Breast form features and capabilities vary; depending on your lifestyle and activities, you might choose:

Silicone breast forms with an adhesive back

Lightweight breast form options

A unique Swim form for water activities

Breast forms with soft gel-back layers to adapt to scars or tissue

Temperature equalizing breast forms or

Partial breast shapers.

Comfort should be your main consideration, and with the innovative technologies available, the broad choice includes special shapes, smart options like air-flow channels and even temperature regulation in some breast forms. Finding a breast form that feels comfortable to you is definitely possible, whatever your needs. With the help of a certified fit specialist, you can try on and feel different types of breast form to see which ones works best for you.

​How does a breast form fit?

To securely hold a breast form or symmetry shaper, there are specially designed bras with integral pockets. While still beautiful to look at, these bras have clever features like a slightly higher neckline and underarm and soft, padded straps. You may also choose a self-adhesive breast form, but we recommend wearing it with a bra, as well. Swimming is particularly good exercise for recovery after breast surgery, so we also design special swimwear with similar features as our bras. Pockets securely hold your breast forms in place and allow comfortable movement and a natural silhouette.

Wearing the right breast form can make a big difference in how you feel every day. ​

Amoena breast forms are designed for optimum comfort and performance. They’re designed to fit into your life and restore your body confidence. For the perfect fit, it’s important that you consult individually with a trained, certified mastectomy fitter in a specialist shop, clinic or hospital. Your fitter’s experience and knowledge can help you identify your unique needs and then choose the right breast form. If its advice your looking for then please call us at the Mastectomy Store on 0418 626527 or e-mail sales@themastectomystore.com.au

For Spring 2018, Amoena has harnessed the cultural climate of women empowering women all over the world, using dramatic colours and textures to illustrate the influence of women through the ages.

The design leader in mastectomy lingerie, swimwear, active wear and tops for women who have experienced breast cancer, Amoena knows how women have shaped history — and continue to influence the world — and what that means for brands who succeed.

“We’re tapped into this current movement where women are holding the world’s businesses and civic leaders to a much higher standard” explains Dirk Müller, Senior VP for Pocketed Apparel at Amoena.

“We’ve long championed the women who wear our products,” he says, “and the fact that women are standing up to be heard more than ever before gives us further resolve to support them in every way.” The company’s history as a pioneer in supporting women after breast cancer creates a particularly strong foundation for such a mission.New, limited edition pocketed lingerie, swimwear, active wear and tops offered this Spring will entice shoppers who wear breast prostheses — and those who don’t.The designs, inspired by global culture — both the buzz of our media age and the earthy, natural heart of humanity — are on par with the world’s top fashion houses.

Information on the program and how to claim a reimbursement.

This national program aims to improve the quality of life of women who have undergone breast surgery (including a full or partial mastectomy or a lumpectomy) as a result of breast cancer.

The program, which commenced on 1 December 2008, provides reimbursements of up to $400 for both new and replacement external breast prostheses for eligible women who have had breast surgery as a result of breast cancer.

All women who are permanent residents of Australia, have a current Medicare entitlement and have had breast surgery (including a full or partial mastectomy or a lumpectomy) as a result of breast cancer, are eligible to claim the reimbursement. The surgery may be recent or in the past. Women who currently receive financial assistance from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) should continue to claim their entitlement through DVA.

The amount that can be claimed is up to $400 for each new or replacement external breast prosthesis, depending on the cost of the prosthesis, and any other financial assistance already obtained (including any rebates obtained from a private health fund). The $400 limit applies to each prosthesis for each breast.

If a claim has previously been made under this program, a subsequent reimbursement can be claimed on prostheses purchased no earlier than two years from the date of last purchase. This applies to each prosthesis for each breast.

More information about the program, including eligibility criteria, a fact sheet and claim form, can be accessed on the Department of Human Services website, or by calling the Department of Human Services on 132 011 (call charges may apply), or visiting a Medicare office.

​Our culture views breasts as sexual and feminine. Some women find them integral to their sense of womanhood and identity. Losing one or both can therefore be upsetting, leaving some with a real sense of loss both in terms of shape and femininity. A beautiful mastectomy bra can really work wonders – allowing you to regain the natural shape of your breast or compensate for any missing breast tissue, with the simple yet discrete inclusion of pockets - specifically designed to easily and securely hold breast forms (breast prosthesis) in place. Mastectomy lingerie is an integral part of the post-surgery recovery process. Further down the line pocketed swimwear and loungewear can also form an important part of a breast cancer survivor’s everyday life.Whether your surgery was months or years ago, a trained mastectomy fitter can help you find lingerie that is comfortable, looks good, and feels sexy too. “My mission is to help women feel great and say ‘hurray’ on the inside, outside and underneath,” says Kim Caldwell, a New York City-based bra fitter who has years of experience and expertise in helping women select undergarments for post-mastectomy. “The sharpest tool I have to help a woman feel good about her body post-mastectomy is bra fitting,” she adds. And that’s not a challenge anymore. “Today’s mastectomy bras are so gorgeous that any woman – mastectomy, lumpectomy, natural – would feel her very best wearing them. And no one will ever be able to tell” that she’s wearing post-mastectomy lingerie.Mastectomy fitters undergo specialized training and often are required to meet specific certification criteria. Some can also help you pick out breast forms. Typically, you need to make an appointment, which can last anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour.

​What Happens At A Fitting?

​Initially your doctor may need to give you the go-ahead to get be fitted for a mastectomy bra. These fittings typically take place either in a medical setting, such a hospital, or in a lingerie store. Wherever you go for your fitting, you should bring your breast form with you – if you have one – and one or two of your favourite tops. That way, you can make sure the bra you choose will work for you in what you’re used to wearing. “You should expect to look good in anything you wear – within reason of the surgical site,” If you bring your favourite bra, your fitter can check it out, too. Sometimes the best choice is the bra you already own.“You can also bring a family member or friend,” suggests Clare Gibson, fitting consultant at Amoena’s showroom in Hampshire, England. “The fitting room can be a very intimate space to share with a fitter you barely know,” agrees Caldwell, and it can help to have emotional support.Fitters typically start by asking what you need: Are you looking for a compression bra (for right after surgery), or a pocketed bra? Are you going to have radiation, which can change your chest wall? (Most fitters recommend waiting until after radiation to get new bras.) What are you looking for in a bra: Are you shopping for the gym or for a special occasion?Your fitter will measure the circumference of your ribcage and, if relevant, your remaining breast, which “serves as a template,” says Poss. She may pick out several styles and let you try them on to check for weight, shape and fullness, Gibson adds.

​Making a Difference

The right lingerie – and the right fitter – can help a woman come to terms with her new post-mastectomy body, says Caldwell. She tells about a woman who’d undergone a bilateral mastectomy and was very nervous about the fitting. When Caldwell asked what type of bra she wanted, she whispered, “something pretty.” Caldwell picked out a few, but it was the soft one with the deep plunge, delicate straps, and red floral applique that did the trick. “It’s beautiful. I’m beautiful,” the woman gasped. “I just never thought I could feel like a woman again. Thank you!” Both Caldwell and the client ended up in tears of joy.Even if the response is more subtle, a fitter can always tell how a woman is reacting. “When a woman comes in, she might be feeling tense and be slightly hunched over,” Gibson explains. “When she leaves, she walks out with her head held high.”

How to Become a Mastectomy Fitter

If you’re thinking about becoming a mastectomy fitter, it helps to be comfortable with women’s bodies, in all shapes and sizes, with and without scars. Compassion and a wonderful bedside manner are key. “A woman may be embarrassed about her body,” says Gibson. “You need to be matter-of-fact and reassuring.” You also need to be a good problem-solver, says Caldwell. You never know who’s going to walk in the door.A medical background can be helpful but it’s not essential. Poss was a respiratory therapist and Gibson trained as a massage therapist and both have found it useful. Caldwell, who came to the field from lingerie, has found that the training process gave her all the technical knowledge she needs. Enthusiasm and compassion, she asserts, are harder to teach.A compassionate and competent mastectomy fitter can go a long way toward helping women learn to love their bodies again.

So many bras in so many cup and band sizes....think about it. 1 style of bra with cups from AA-D, sizes 10-20 and thats 30 bras JUST FOR ONE STYLE!! Multiply that by the number of bra styles the Mastectomy Store has available, and you can probably get the picture.

SO...WE NEED TO HAVE A SALE!!! Briefs for as low as $10 and bras for as low as $25...genuine prices that wont last long. Checkout the special $25 section on the website to see if we have something for you. ​https://www.themastectomystore.com.au/store/c49/%2425_Super_Sale.html